UDC names two more head coaches

August 19, 2009

The University of the District of Columbia announced two more head coaches this week. Jasmine Rogers has been picked to lead the men's and women's cross-country and women's track program, while Philadelphia 76ers assistant coach Jeff Ruland has been tabbed head men's basketball coach.

Rogers comes to the University after an illustrious career as a student-athlete at Delaware State University in Dover, from which she graduated with honors, with a bachelor’s degree in management and a concentration in marketing. She also received a master’s degree in sports administration from Delaware State this past spring semester, and completed internships in athletic marketing and media relations and served as a volunteer coach for the Delaware State Men’s & Women’s Track Teams.

Rogers

Ruland

She was an outstanding track & field athlete at Delaware, specializing in the high hurdles. Her 2007 accomplishments included becoming an Outdoor East Regional Qualifier in the 100 meter hurdles, becoming an ECAC Finalist in the 100 meter hurdles, and the 4x100 meter relay. She was also named to the MEAC All-Academic Team for cross-country and indoor and outdoor track.

“Jasmine will be extremely effective progressing into coaching from her outstanding career as a scholar-athlete,"said Patricia Thomas, director of athletics. "I am proud to have her join the Firebird family."

Ruland was introduced at a press conference Tuesday afternoon by UDC President Allen Sessoms who praised the work of Thomas in finalizing a multi-year deal that brings the former Washington Bullet standout to UDC for at least five years.

“Coach Ruland is the perfect choice at the perfect time,” said Dr. Sessoms. “As we continue to strengthen and raise the profile of this institution, athletics is a serious component, and adding quality leadership like that of Jeff Ruland creates a strong foundation well into the future.”

Ruland brings more than 30 years of professional and collegiate playing and coaching experience to the game. He has played professionally for teams in Washington, Philadelphia and Detroit and spent nine years as the head coach of his alma mater, Iona College in New Rochelle, New York.

“It has always been a dream of mine to return to Washington, DC,” said Coach Ruland. “UDC presents a perfect opportunity to mesh my coaching philosophy with that of an institution undergoing a rebirth. The Firebird is definitely rising again!”